Here’s a breakdown of all the wedding events leading up to the big day and who to invite for what event.
Knowing the proper wedding etiquette can be tough for those newly engaged and planning their wedding. You’ll want to know how much you have in your budget so you can plan properly when creating guest lists. Once you make your wedding guest list, you can’t invite everyone on that list to all the wedding events. From invites to toasts, here’s a breakdown of all the wedding events leading up to the big day and, most importantly – who to invite for what event.
Engagement Party
Who plans it: One set of parents will host
When does it take place: 1-3 months after your engagement
An engagement party is a celebration for you and your fiancé, so usually, you won’t have to do the majority of the planning. Invite family members on both sides, close friends, grandparents, closest aunts, uncles, cousins, and the bridal party. Although you might want to invite your entire wedding guest list, your engagement party should have a completely different feel from your actual wedding. And if you’re not inviting someone to your wedding, do not invite them to any of your pre-wedding events.
Bachelor/Bachelorette Party
Who plans it: The wedding party
When does it take place: It’s up to you! 2 months – 1 week before the wedding day
Your bachelorette party is your one last wild night before marriage! Your bridal party will most likely plan this excursion. You just have to decide who to invite! Spend time on the guest list, including the bride’s closest friends. You should always extend an invite to any sisters of the bride and groom even if they’re not in the wedding party. Don’t forget about out-of-town friends too!
Rehearsal Dinner
Who plans it: The couple or traditionally the groom’s parents
When does it take place: The day before the wedding
If you’re paying for the entire wedding, you and your future spouse have complete control over who to invite. This is the perfect time to practice before your big day, so inviting those who will play a role on your wedding day is important. This means anyone doing a reading, the ushers, and/or your officiant. The immediate family should always be invited to this intimate event. That also includes any parents, siblings, and grandparents. Depending on the size of your family, it should be the perfect amount of guests.
Morning-After Brunch
Who plans it: Bride and groom, wedding planner
When does it take place: The morning after your wedding
Why end the celebration at the reception? Keep the party going and host a Sunday morning-after brunch at Historic Oakland! Proper etiquette is to invite your entire wedding guest list as it’s part of the inclusive weekend. Not everyone will come, but they should all be invited nonetheless. You’ll get to spend another day with your guests, especially those you don’t see all that often. Host a breakfast at the hotel where you’re staying and have everyone enjoy pancakes, waffles, bacon, eggs, coffee, bloody marys, and mimosas together.
Planning these wedding-related events is fun, but it’s no secret that the cost of these events adds up. At the end of the day, invite your family members and true friends that you know will make your day extra special. Don’t feel obligated to send out invites to everyone. When it comes down to it, respect and consider your guests.
HISTORIC OAKLAND MANOR: THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE
Nestled in a peaceful wooded area in the heart of downtown Columbia, Historic Oakland Manor stands proudly in natural splendor. Elegant Oakland is the perfect setting for ceremonies, wedding receptions, bridal showers, holiday parties, family celebrations, business meetings, or retreats. Schedule a tour today with our expert venue coordinators! Please call (410-730-4801), email ([email protected]), or visit our chat on our homepage to book a tour appointment.
